Indulge in italian delights: crave-worthy chicken piccata with luscious tomatoes

Chicken piccata, a classic Italian dish, tantalizes taste buds with its tender chicken, tangy lemon sauce, and the unexpected richness of tomatoes. This recipe elevates the traditional piccata by incorporating ripe tomatoes, adding a vibrant burst of flavor and color.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: In a shallow bowl, combine flour, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Dredge chicken breasts in the flour mixture.
2. Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Create the sauce: Remove chicken from the skillet. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes. Pour in white wine (if using) and let it reduce by half.
4. Add liquids: Stir in chicken broth and tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Return the chicken: Place chicken breasts back in the skillet. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through and sauce has thickened.
6. Finish with lemon: Remove skillet from heat and stir in lemon juice and parsley.
7. Serve: Serve chicken piccata immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Variations:

• Capers: Add 1/4 cup of drained capers to the sauce for a briny touch.
• Mushrooms: Sauté 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onion and garlic for an earthy flavor.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Use 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for a more intense flavor.

Tips:

• To pound chicken breasts thin, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin.
• Use a good quality dry white wine for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute with an equal amount of chicken broth.
• Do not overcook the chicken, as it will become tough.

Benefits of Tomatoes in Chicken Piccata:

• Antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects against certain types of cancer.
• Vitamin C: Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes skin health.
• Fiber: Tomatoes contain soluble fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and digestive health.
• Flavor enhancer: Tomatoes add a vibrant and tangy flavor to the piccata sauce, complementing the lemon and chicken.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Pasta: Serve chicken piccata over your favorite pasta, such as linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
• Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the dish.

Ending on a Flavorful Note

This chicken piccata recipe with tomato is a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. The tender chicken, tangy lemon sauce, and juicy tomatoes create a harmonious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Experiment with the variations and tips provided to customize it to your taste. Enjoy the culinary adventure!

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They may take a few minutes longer to cook.

Q: What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
A: You can substitute with another hard cheese, such as Romano or Asiago.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.